Broomfield, CO
- About the city
- Geography
- Climate and weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Broomfield is a consolidated city-county in Colorado, a key suburb between Denver and Boulder with a rich railroad history and modern amenities.
About the city
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
The full official name of this unique municipality is the City and County of Broomfield . It is a consolidated city-county, meaning its government functions as both a city and a county. It is not a state capital but serves as the county seat for the newly formed Broomfield County . Broomfield is located in the state of Colorado, within the Denver–Aurora–Lakewood Metropolitan Statistical Area, a region known as the Front Range urban corridor, which is the most populous area in Colorado .
Historical Names and Nicknames
Before its incorporation, the area was known as Zang's Spur, named after a railroad spur that served Adolph Zang's grain fields . One of its first modern subdivisions was called Broomfield Heights, a "dream city" advertised in the 1950s . The name "Broomfield" itself is believed to come from the broomcorn once grown in the area .
Date of Foundation and Age
The Broomfield post office first opened on September 26, 1884 . The City of Broomfield was officially incorporated on June 6, 1961 . After decades of growth, it became a consolidated city-county on November 15, 2001, making it the newest and smallest county in Colorado . As of 2024, the incorporated city is 63 years old.
Geographical Position and Coordinates
Broomfield is situated in north-central Colorado at coordinates 39°57'12"N 105°03'07"W . It lies on the Colorado Eastern Plains along the foothills of the Front Range, approximately midway between the cities of Denver and Boulder . The elevation of the city center is 5,348 feet (1,630 meters) above sea level . It is a suburban city that is also the smallest county by area in Colorado .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Broomfield is primarily a residential suburb and a growing commercial and technological center. Its economy benefits from its strategic location along the Denver-Boulder Turnpike (US 36), attracting high-tech businesses . It is famously the headquarters for the global footwear company Crocs, Inc. . The city also features the FlatIron Crossing mall, a major regional shopping and entertainment destination .
Population and Demographics
According to the 2020 United States census, the population of Broomfield was 74,112 . It is estimated to have grown to 78,323 by 2024 . This makes it the 15th most populous municipality and the 12th most populous county in Colorado . It is one of the fastest-growing and most densely populated counties in the state, second only to Denver .
City's "Visiting Card"
Broomfield offers the perfect blend of Colorado living, combining peaceful suburban comfort with convenient access to the state's top attractions. As a gateway city on the historic Denver-Boulder Turnpike, it is home to unique destinations like the Butterfly Pavilion and the picturesque Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport, providing a quiet base for exploring the vibrant Front Range .
Geography
Mountains and Mountain Ranges
While there are no mountains within Broomfield's city limits, its location on the foothills provides iconic views. The Davidson Mesa Overlook on US 36 offers a panoramic vista of the Front Range mountains, including Boulder's famous Flatirons rock formations .
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)
Historically, the area had two small reservoirs, Track Lake and Willow Lake, created by the Zang family, which were popular for swimming and boating. These lakes were later drained for development . Today, the city features several smaller reservoirs and recreational lakes within parks like the Broomfield County Commons Park . The area is part of the watershed for the South Platte River, which flows through the greater Denver metropolitan area.
Deserts, Canyons, and Unique Landscapes
Broomfield sits on the edge of the shortgrass prairie ecosystem . The region's potential natural vegetation is predominantly grama and buffalo grass . To the immediate west are the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, leading to numerous canyons and mountain passes.
National and Nature Parks
While Broomfield has no national parks within its boundaries, it is home to the Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center, a unique zoo and invertebrate-focused conservation center . Additionally, the Rocky Mountain National Park is accessible via US 36, which begins at its entrance and passes through Broomfield .
Islands and Archipelagos
Not applicable.
Climate and weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
According to the Köppen climate classification, Broomfield has a cold semi-arid climate (BSk) bordering on a humid continental climate (Dfb) . It is characterized by four distinct seasons with low humidity, abundant sunshine, and a large diurnal temperature range. The area enjoys over 300 sunny days per year .
Average Monthly Temperatures
Summers are warm to hot, with July being the warmest month, averaging a high of 88.7°F (31.5°C) and a low of 57.6°F (14.2°C) . Winters are cold, with December being the coldest, averaging a high of 44.7°F (7.1°C) and a low of 18.0°F (-7.8°C) . Record high temperatures can reach up to 100°F (38°C) , and record lows can plunge to -12°F (-24°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
The average annual precipitation is low, at about 16.12 inches (409 mm) . The wettest months are typically March through May, with May seeing the most rainfall . Snowfall is common from late fall to early spring, averaging about 14 inches annually . The humidity is generally low year-round, averaging around 48%, which makes even hot and cold temperatures more tolerable .
Sunny Days and UV Index
Broomfield is exceptionally sunny, receiving an average of 3,515 hours of sunshine per year . The sunniest months are June, July, and August . Due to the high elevation and sunny days, the UV index can be very high. It reaches Extreme (11-12) levels during the summer months of June and July, making sun protection essential .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Broomfield is from May to September, when the weather is warm and conducive to outdoor activities .
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up from the 40s to the 60s°F, but this is also the wettest time of year with the highest precipitation .
- Summer (June-August): Features long, sunny, and warm days with average highs in the 80s°F and lower humidity, perfect for hiking and exploring . Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July .
- Fall (September-November): Offers mild, pleasant temperatures with decreasing rainfall and the beauty of changing autumn colors .
- Winter (December-February): Is cold and dry with significant snowfall, with February being the snowiest month . It's ideal for those who enjoy winter sports or a peaceful, crisp landscape .
Specific Weather Phenomena
Like much of Colorado's Front Range, Broomfield can experience rapid and dramatic weather changes, including sudden temperature drops and strong downslope winds. Snowfall can occur as early as October and as late as May .
Comparison with Other Cities
Broomfield's climate is typical of Colorado's Front Range suburbs, with slightly warmer winters and cooler summers than the higher-elevation cities like Boulder to its west, but more precipitation than cities further east on the plains .
Landmarks
Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center
The Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center is Broomfield's most renowned attraction . Opened in 1995, this nonprofit zoo is the first Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited invertebrate zoo in the world. Visitors can walk through a tropical rainforest conservatory filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies, and interact with other fascinating arthropods like spiders, beetles, and Rosie the tarantula. It's an educational and interactive experience for all ages, located at 6252 W 104th Ave, Westminster, CO, near the Broomfield line .
Broomfield Depot Museum
Housed in a historic railroad depot, the Broomfield Depot Museum tells the story of the town's origins . The original depot, from the area's early days as "Zang's Spur," was moved to its current location at 2201 W. 10th Ave. The museum showcases the history of Broomfield from its days as a railroad stop through its development as a "city by the turnpike," with exhibits on local pioneers, agriculture, and the railroads that shaped the community .
FlatIron Crossing
FlatIron Crossing is a major regional shopping mall that serves as a commercial and social hub . Opened in 2000, this large lifestyle center features a unique Colorado-inspired architectural design with indoor and outdoor components offering stunning mountain views. It includes a wide variety of retail stores, a cinema, and numerous dining options, making it a key destination for both shopping and entertainment .
1stBank Center
The 1stBank Center is a versatile indoor arena located at 11450 Broomfield Lane . Since opening in 2006, it has been a prime venue for concerts, comedy shows, family entertainment, and sporting events. It serves as a major cultural venue for the northern Denver metro area, attracting national touring acts .
Broomfield County Commons Park
Broomfield County Commons Park is a vast 174-acre green space that embodies the city's commitment to outdoor recreation . Located at 13200 Sheridan Blvd, the park features an extensive network of paved and natural trails for walking and biking, several fishing lakes, sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It is a central gathering place for community events and a perfect spot for families and nature lovers .
Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC)
While primarily a transportation facility, the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC) is a landmark in its own right . Located at 11755 Airport Way, this general aviation airport is a major facility for corporate and private aircraft. It is also home to several aviation museums and flight schools, and offers a unique vantage point of the surrounding landscape from its on-site restaurant .
Transport
Major Airports
Broomfield is served by two major airports.
- Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC) is located directly within the city and caters to general aviation, corporate jets, and cargo flights . It is a reliever airport for Denver, offering a convenient option for private pilots and businesses.
- The primary commercial airport is Denver International Airport (DEN) , which is approximately 30-40 minutes east via the E-470 toll road or Northwest Parkway . It is a major hub with flights to destinations worldwide.
Major Highways
Broomfield is a significant transportation crossroads. U.S. Route 36 (US 36) , the historic Denver-Boulder Turnpike, bisects the city and connects it directly to Denver and Boulder . U.S. Route 287 (US 287) also runs through Broomfield . The city is also accessed by the Northwest Parkway, a toll road that connects US 36 to Interstate 25 (I-25) and the E-470 beltway, providing a crucial link around the Denver metro area . Other important state highways include SH 121 (Wadsworth Boulevard) and SH 128 .
Public Transportation
Public transportation in Broomfield is provided by the Regional Transportation District (RTD) . The city is a key hub for RTD's bus network, including the Flatiron Flyer, a bus rapid transit (BRT) service that uses the US 36 express lanes to provide fast and frequent service between Boulder and Denver, with several stops in Broomfield . Local RTD bus routes also connect neighborhoods within Broomfield and to adjacent communities.
Railroads
Broomfield's origins are deeply tied to the railroad. Historically, it was served by the Colorado Central Railroad and the Denver, Utah and Pacific Railroad . Today, the BNSF Railway main line still passes through the area, though there is no passenger rail service within the city. The nearest Amtrak station is in Denver (Denver Union Station).
Bicycle and Pedestrian Infrastructure
Broomfield is known for its extensive trail system. The US 36 Bikeway, a key part of the multi-modal corridor, runs alongside the highway, providing a dedicated path for cyclists and pedestrians connecting Broomfield to Boulder and Westminster . The city also maintains a comprehensive network of local trails and greenways, making it easy to navigate by bike or on foot.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Broomfield's dining scene reflects its location in the Denver metropolitan area, offering a broad mix of American classics, international chains, and locally-owned gems rather than a single, centuries-old local dish. The culinary identity here is modern, diverse, and influenced by the broader Colorado love for high-quality ingredients and creative concepts .
A Classic Local Diner: Great Scotts Eatery
For a taste of Broomfield's local charm, Great Scotts Eatery is a beloved institution. This classic all-day diner takes you "back to the 60's" with its ambiance and is decorated with memorabilia from the '50s to the '80s . It's famous for its huge menu of classic American meals, many with a Mexican accent, making it a favorite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner . It's the go-to spot for a casual, nostalgic meal that feels authentically Broomfield.
Steakhouse Dining with a Colorado View
Reflecting the region's upscale dining trends, Flatz Restaurant and Lounge offers an award-winning experience. Located in the FlatIron Crossing mall area, this "comfortable Rocky Mountain grill" emphasizes a "Food Forward" approach, focusing on high-quality ingredients and fresh local produce . It represents the modern Colorado style of dining—upscale yet relaxed, with a strong connection to local sourcing.
Global Flavors and Popular Chains
The city's culinary landscape is also defined by its diversity and the many highly-rated chain restaurants that have become local favorites . For instance, you can find:
- Benihana, a world-famous Japanese hibachi chain where chefs prepare meals tableside with theatrical flair .
- P.F. Chang's, a family-friendly chain known for its creative takes on Asian fare .
- Azafran Indian Cuisine, which offers a modern Indian menu in a chic, minimalist space .
- Phở Duy, a popular spot for traditional Vietnamese dishes .
- Oscar's Kabob and Gyros, a family-owned, counter-service hub for Persian and Greek classics like kebabs and gyros .
What to Drink
As is common throughout Colorado, the local drink scene is centered on craft beer. Many of the restaurants and bars in Broomfield, such as North Side Tavern Restaurant and Old Man Bar, pride themselves on offering a wide selection of locally sourced craft brews . Enjoying a Colorado-made beer with a meal is a key part of the region's culinary experience.
Museums
Broomfield itself is home to two intimate museums that focus on local history and heritage. For world-class art and large-scale exhibits, the nearby city of Denver, just a 20-30 minute drive away, offers some of the finest museums in the American West .
Museums in Broomfield
- Broomfield Depot Museum: Housed in a meticulously preserved train depot, this museum's mission is to collect, preserve, and interpret the history of Broomfield, with a special focus on the railroad depot's role in the city's development. It features captivating artifacts and interactive displays that bring the city's heritage to life. It is open on Saturdays and by appointment .
- Broomfield Veterans Memorial Museum: This museum serves as a poignant tribute to the brave individuals who have served in the armed forces. It showcases permanent and temporary exhibits that honor those who have served and explores the rich military history of Broomfield and its connection to broader American conflicts. It shares the same Saturday hours as the Depot Museum .
Major Museums Nearby in Denver (approx. 20-25 miles south)
- Denver Art Museum (DAM): One of the largest art museums between the West Coast and Chicago, DAM is a must-visit. It is renowned for its extensive collection of American Indian art, as well as impressive holdings of pre-Columbian and Spanish Colonial art. The museum's building, the Frederic C. Hamilton Building, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, is a architectural masterpiece in itself. Visitors can see works by artists from around the world .
- Denver Museum of Nature & Science (DMNS): This is a massive complex featuring outstanding permanent exhibits like "Expedition Health," "Space Odyssey," and a fascinating exhibit on Egyptian mummies. It's a hub of scientific inquiry with popular touring exhibits, an IMAX theater, and the Gates Planetarium, making it a perfect destination for families and science enthusiasts .
- Meow Wolf Denver's Convergence Station: This is not a traditional museum but an immersive, interactive art experience. Created by hundreds of artists, Convergence Station is a mind-bending, multi-sensory journey through a psychedelic, sci-fi universe. It's a wildly popular and unique attraction that has redefined what a "museum" can be .
- Molly Brown House Museum: For history buffs, this museum is the former home of Margaret "Molly" Brown, the philanthropist, activist, and survivor of the Titanic. The beautifully preserved house offers a glimpse into Victorian-era Denver and the life of its most famous "unsinkable" resident .
Sport and Sports Legends
While Broomfield does not have its own major professional sports team, it is strategically located in a region passionate about sports. The city itself offers excellent community sports facilities and is within a short drive of all the major professional arenas and stadiums in the Denver metro area.
Sports Venues in Broomfield
The city's main sports and entertainment venue is the 1stBank Center. This premier facility hosts a diverse range of events, from major concerts to sports competitions, including ice shows, rodeos, and college basketball tournaments, bringing top-tier entertainment directly to Broomfield residents .
For community sports, the city's parks and recreation department manages numerous facilities. A key example is the Lukas A. Buthy Park, which offers lighted sports fields, batting cages, an outdoor pool, and playgrounds, serving as a central hub for local youth and adult leagues .
Professional Sports Nearby in Denver
Residents of Broomfield are fans of all the major Denver teams. The city is within a 20-30 minute drive of the heart of Denver's sports district. Key teams include:
- Denver Broncos (NFL): One of the most iconic franchises in American football, they play at Empower Field at Mile High.
- Colorado Rockies (MLB): Denver's Major League Baseball team, playing at the picturesque Coors Field in downtown Denver.
- Denver Nuggets (NBA): The reigning NBA champions (2023), who play their home games at Ball Arena.
- Colorado Avalanche (NHL): A perennial Stanley Cup contender, also playing at Ball Arena.
- Colorado Rapids (MLS): Denver's Major League Soccer team, playing at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in nearby Commerce City.
- Colorado Mammoth (NLL): Denver's professional lacrosse team, also playing at Ball Arena.
Major Sporting Events
The Denver metro area regularly hosts major sporting events. Ball Arena frequently hosts NCAA tournament games (March Madness). The NCAA Division I Football Championship (the FCS title game) was held at Toyota Stadium in the Denver suburb of Frisco for many years, drawing national attention. The region also hosts major golf tournaments and international soccer friendlies.
Universities and Educational Institutions
While Broomfield has one college within its city limits, it is surrounded by a dense network of prestigious universities and specialized institutions in the broader Denver-Boulder area, making it a great location for students and academics.
The College in Broomfield
Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology is the only college located directly in Broomfield . This private, for-profit 2-year college focuses on training the next generation of aviation professionals. Located at 10851 W 120th Ave, it offers associate degrees in fields like aviation flight and aviation maintenance, preparing students for careers as pilots and aircraft mechanics. With a small student population of around 284 and a low student-to-faculty ratio of 11 to 1, it provides focused, hands-on training .
Major Universities Nearby
The region is home to some of the top universities in the state and the nation.
- University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder): Just a 12-mile drive from Broomfield, CU Boulder is the flagship university of the state and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) . It's a major public research university with nationally ranked programs in engineering, physics, environmental law, and business. The campus is also known for its beautiful setting against the Flatirons and its vibrant student life. It has an enrollment of nearly 40,000 students .
- Colorado School of Mines: Located about 17 miles away in Golden, this is a world-renowned public research university dedicated to engineering and applied science, with a special focus on energy, minerals, and materials . It has extremely high admissions standards and is a top producer of engineers and scientists.
- University of Denver (DU): About 20 miles south in Denver, DU is a private university with a strong reputation for its Sturm College of Law, Daniels College of Business, and the Josef Korbel School of International Studies .
- Regis University: A private Jesuit university in Denver with a strong liberal arts core and professional programs, serving nearly 5,000 students .
- Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver): A public university in downtown Denver known for its accessibility and diverse student body, serving nearly 17,000 students .
- Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design (RMCAD): A private, for-profit art and design school in nearby Lakewood, offering both on-campus and online degrees in fine arts, graphic design, animation, and more .
Specialized Institutions
The area also boasts a variety of specialized schools:
- Front Range Community College: With a campus in nearby Westminster (just 3.7 miles away), this is the largest community college in the area, offering a huge range of associate degrees and certificate programs to nearly 20,000 students .
- Red Rocks Community College: Another major public community college in Lakewood with a focus on career and technical education .
- Iliff School of Theology: A graduate school in Denver dedicated to theological studies .
- Naropa University: A private, Buddhist-inspired university in Boulder known for its contemplative education approach .
Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Broomfield is well-served by modern healthcare facilities, anchored by a major full-service hospital and a specialized children's hospital. It also provides easy access to the world-renowned medical complex located nearby in Aurora.
Major Hospitals in Broomfield
- UCHealth Broomfield Hospital: This is the primary full-service hospital for the city. Located at 11820 Destination Dr, it is a modern facility with a vast network of affiliated physicians. With 65 specialties and 343 practicing physicians listed as affiliated, it provides comprehensive care including emergency medicine, cardiovascular services, orthopedics, surgical services, and much more . It serves as a key healthcare hub for Broomfield and the surrounding communities.
- Children's Hospital Colorado - North Campus: Located at 469 State Highway 7, this facility is a designated Essential Community Provider and a key part of the renowned Children's Hospital Colorado network . This campus provides specialized pediatric care for patients 21 and younger, including urgent care, hospital services, and a wide range of pediatric specialties. It offers families in Broomfield access to world-class children's healthcare close to home .
Nearby World-Class Medical Centers
For highly specialized or complex medical needs, Broomfield residents have quick access to two of the most advanced medical centers in the Rocky Mountain region.
- UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital (Aurora): Located on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora (about 20-25 miles southeast), this is the flagship hospital for UCHealth and a nationally ranked academic medical center. It is consistently recognized as one of the top hospitals in the country for specialties like cancer care, cardiology and heart surgery, ear, nose and throat, and many others. It is the clinical partner of the University of Colorado School of Medicine .
- Children's Hospital Colorado (Anschutz Medical Campus): The main campus of Children's Hospital Colorado is also located on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora. It is consistently ranked among the very best children's hospitals in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, providing advanced, specialized pediatric care across dozens of subspecialties .
Nearby Specialized Institutions
The Anschutz Medical Campus itself is a massive hub for healthcare and research, also including the University of Colorado College of Nursing, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and the Colorado School of Public Health, making it a destination for cutting-edge medical treatment and education .